Sword versus spear in Kalaripayattu

The video is of a fight with sword and spear (vaal and kuntham in local parlance) in Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art form of Kerala.

Also known as Mara Pidicha Kuntham this fight is of prime importance in Kalaripayattu.

An expert in Kalaripayattu should always be ready to defend himself from attack with any weapon.

Training in Mara Pidicha Kuntham fight with seven adavus (tactics) helps the trainee to attain this end. The video is taken from CVN Kalari, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

Kalaripayattu is regarded as the most ancient martial art form in the world. Kalaripayattu training focuses on the co-ordination of mind and body.

There is also a scientific medicine system called Kalarichikilsa associated with this martial art. Kalarichikilsa, the herbal medicine system is highly effective for bruises and sprains.

There are two styles of Kalarippayattu; the North Kerala and South Kerala styles.

In the medieval period Kalaripayattu was a way of life in the state. The Asan or Guru (teacher) of Kalaripayattu had much social respectability.